Ulcerative Colitis: Problems Outside the Digestive Tract

Topic Overview

Arthritis, in 5 to 20 out of 100 people. Some people
develop colitis-related arthritis, which may resemble
rheumatoid arthritis. In people who have ulcerative
colitis, inflammation limited to the lower joints of the spine (sacroiliitis)
is more common than ankylosing spondylitis, another type of arthritis that
affects the spine and lower back.

Eye symptoms such as inflammation of the iris and blood vessels (uveitis), and
inflammation of the white part of the eyes (episcleritis). Treatment of ulcerative
colitis with corticosteroid medicines may increase the risk of cataracts. Eye
problems occur in less than 10 out of 100 people who have ulcerative
colitis.

Skin conditions such as mouth ulcers, erythema nodosum, and pyoderma gangrenosum. Both erythema nodosum and pyoderma gangrenosum are relatively rare. About 10 out of 100
people with ulcerative colitis develop mouth ulcers.

Problems with blood clots in the legs or other areas of
the body.

Liver problems, including chronic hepatitis and
inflammation of the tissues around the bile ducts.

Ulcerative colitis can also cause growth problems in children. Affected
children may not grow as quickly or as tall as their peers. Children with
ulcerative colitis need attention to their diet to ensure that they get enough
nutrients.

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